Lost folders

Some folders and a file in "My documents" and "My pictures", also my "received files" contents have disapeared. I have restarted the computer, run a search, scanned for viruses and restored the computer to a time when they were still there and searched again, all with no luck. Where have they gone? Is there a way of retrieving them and if not how do I fix it so it doesn't happen again? I have a laptop with Windows xp and am very new to computers as you may have realised! Thanks in advance.

Not sure what else to try, but don't alter anything just yet, one of our forum users may have the answer. I'll keep an eye on the thread for you, if it slips too far down, i'll bring it back to the top. Once again good luck, they must be there somewhere! j.